The Philippines has imposed a lifelong ban on Anthony Laurence, an American traveler, for purportedly using "profane words" on an electronic immigration form and displaying discourteous

behavior toward immigration officials.

According to Norman Tansingco, the Commissioner of the Philippine Bureau of Immigration, Laurence's alleged disrespectful conduct led to his permanent blacklisting after arriving at Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Manila from Bangkok on an Air Asia flight on November 7.

Reports claim Laurence showed contempt toward an immigration officer upon arrival, tossing his passport and mobile phone at another officer when reminded to fill out an online travel form.

Disputing these allegations, Laurence, a property investor who intermittently resides in the country, refutes the immigration authority's version of events.

Commissioner Tansingco stated, "Upon verification in our system, it was discovered that the passenger had entered a fictitious address in the Philippines, omitted his full name, and included profane language in his entry."

Tansingco stressed the importance of respectful conduct and adherence to established procedures. He noted that the agency expects compliance and would firmly handle any violations.

In response, Laurence denied raising his voice or tossing items, mentioning his attempts to seek assistance in filling out the form. He admitted to frustration and entering incorrect details to expedite immigration procedures for his connecting flight to Cebu.

While Laurence apologized on-site and offered a handwritten apology to the officer, he criticized the authorities for their alleged overreaction and lack of official documentation regarding the ban.

Despite not confirming plans for his return to the Philippines, Laurence indicated the need to divest his property investments in the country. The immigration bureau reported 44 similar exclusions and blacklists of foreign nationals deemed 'disrespectful' in 2023. Photo by Patrickroque01, Wikimedia commons.